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The 1966 Ford Fairlane 500 hardtop coupe stands as a quintessential example of American automotive design from an era defined by bold styling and accessible performance. Originally conceived as a more family-oriented vehicle, the Fairlane quickly evolved into a platform for formidable muscle car variants, capturing the spirit of high-performance motoring. This particular 1966 Fairlane 500 hardtop coupe showcases a thoughtful blend of its inherent vintage charm and significant modern upgrades, making it a compelling offering for enthusiasts. With its custom exterior finish and a powerfully enhanced engine, this vehicle embodies the enduring appeal of classic Ford iron, ready to deliver a spirited driving experience.
Power and Performance Upgrades: At the heart of this Fairlane 500’s enhanced capabilities is a formidable 390ci V8 engine, originally a Thunderbird Special V8, which has undergone substantial upgrades to boost its performance and reliability. The engine has been bored 0.040″ over, increasing its displacement and internal volume. Crucially, it has been fitted with Holley Sniper fuel injection, a modern electronic system that significantly improves fuel delivery, efficiency, and cold-start reliability compared to its original carbureted setup. Further performance enhancements include an Edelbrock intake manifold, optimizing airflow into the cylinders, and a revised camshaft, carefully selected to alter valve timing for increased power output. This potent V8 sends power to the rear wheels via a robust three-speed Cruise-O-Matic automatic transmission, specifically a C6 Select Shift unit, ensuring smooth and responsive power delivery. Complementing this powertrain are a dual exhaust system, providing a distinctive V8 rumble, and traction bars, which help manage torque and improve rear-wheel grip during acceleration.
Striking Exterior and Visual Appeal: This 1966 Ford Fairlane 500 hardtop coupe immediately commands attention with its distinctive and vibrant custom exterior. The car has been refinished in a bold orange paint scheme, beautifully contrasted by assertive black hood and side stripes, a custom application performed by a prior owner. This striking combination gives the classic coupe a more aggressive and contemporary street presence, while still honoring its iconic body lines, including the distinctive stacked headlights and chrome bumpers. The rear of the car features functional reverse lights and dual exhaust outlets that exit cleanly behind the rear wheels, contributing to its sporty appearance. While the current paintwork presents a commanding look, a paint crack is noted on the front of the hood. The original color, as indicated by the body tag, was Medium Sage Gold Metallic, highlighting the transformation this vehicle has undergone.
Enhanced Dynamics and Wheel Setup: To complement its upgraded powertrain and bold exterior, this Fairlane 500 features enhancements designed to improve its driving dynamics and stance. The car rides on classic 15″ American Racing wheels, a popular choice among enthusiasts for their timeless design and robust construction. These wheels are mounted with Hoosier Radial GT tires, known for providing a good balance of performance and street usability. The addition of traction bars at the rear axle is a significant performance upgrade, helping to prevent wheel hop under hard acceleration and ensure more efficient power transfer to the pavement. Furthermore, the car is equipped with power steering, a welcome feature that greatly enhances maneuverability and ease of driving, making this classic more enjoyable for regular use.
Classic Interior with Modern Touches: The cabin of this 1966 Ford Fairlane 500 hardtop coupe maintains a classic aesthetic with practical modern integrations. The interior features comfortable bench seating trimmed in black vinyl, consistent with its factory trim code, offering ample space for occupants. Cabin appointments include functional front vent windows and traditional wind-up windows, allowing for ventilation. A heater is present for comfort in cooler conditions. A notable modern addition is a monitor for the fuel injection system, discreetly placed in the ashtray, providing real-time data for the Holley Sniper setup. While the interior retains much of its vintage charm, it is noted that the radio does not work, and some rust is present on the floor pans, common in vehicles of this age.
Driver Interface and Noted Conditions: The driver’s cockpit maintains a largely original feel, centered around a two-spoke steering wheel adorned with a classic chrome horn ring. This wheel sits ahead of a characteristic horizontal-sweep 120-mph speedometer and a functional fuel level gauge, providing essential driving information in a period-correct layout. The five-digit odometer currently displays 97,000 miles, with approximately 500 of those miles added under the current ownership since 2021. It is important to note that the alternator warning light is illuminated, indicating a potential electrical system issue that may require attention. This Fairlane 500 offers a direct connection to its vintage roots while benefiting from thoughtful performance and convenience upgrades, providing a unique driving experience for its next owner.
A Customized Classic: This 1966 Ford Fairlane 500 hardtop coupe stands as a compelling example of a classic American muscle car thoughtfully updated for modern enjoyment. Its potent 390ci V8, enhanced with Holley Sniper fuel injection and other performance modifications, delivers a robust and reliable driving experience. The vibrant custom orange paint with black stripes, combined with American Racing wheels, gives it a distinctive and aggressive street presence. While some cosmetic and electrical conditions are noted, this Fairlane offers a strong foundation for an enthusiast seeking a powerful and visually striking vintage Ford that blends classic appeal with contemporary functionality. It is offered with a clean Montana title in the seller’s name, ready for its next chapter on the open road.
Summary:
- This 1966 Ford Fairlane 500 hardtop coupe is powered by a modified 390ci V8.
- Engine upgrades include boring .040″ over, Holley Sniper fuel injection, an Edelbrock intake manifold, and a revised camshaft.
- Power is routed through a three-speed automatic (Cruise-O-Matic) transmission to the rear wheels.
- The car features a custom repaint in orange with black hood and side stripes.
- It rides on 15″ American Racing wheels with Hoosier Radial GT tires and has added traction bars.
- Interior includes black vinyl bench seats, a heater, and a Holley Sniper fuel injection monitor.
- Equipped with power steering and a dual exhaust system.
- Noted conditions include a paint crack, non-working radio, rust on floor pans, and an illuminated alternator warning light.
- The odometer shows 97k miles, and it comes with a clean Montana title.
Disclaimer: Information provided is for general informational purposes only and is based on available details. Potential buyers are advised to conduct their own thorough inspection and verification of any vehicle.
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